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Ukrainians to the world: #RussiaInvadedUkraine

A satellite image provided by Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) and taken by DigitalGlobe on August 21, 2014 shows what is reported by SHAPE a presence of Russian Self-Propelled Artillery in Ukraine. (REUTERS/DIGITAL GLOBE)

On Thursday, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said Russian forces had invaded the eastern part of his war-torn country. Despite Russia's denial of involvement in the conflict, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs tweeted #RussiaInvadedUkraine and urged the world to share the message that Russian troops were in Ukraine. The hashtag has been used more than 484,000 times.

Many in Ukraine appeal for international assistance as Russia denies reports of invasion.

A NATO military officer told reporters that "well over 1,000 Russian troops are now operating inside Ukraine...They are supporting separatists (and) fighting with them." The US mission to NATO also tweeted satellite images of what it said were Russian forces engaged in operations inside Ukraine:

2/3 So now an increasing number of Russian troops are intervening directly in fighting on Ukrainian territoryGeoffrey Pyatt

3/3 Russia has also sent its newest air defense systems including the SA-22 into eastern Ukraine & is now directly involved in the fighting.Geoffrey Pyatt

Earlier this week, 11 Russian soldiers were captured inside Ukraine. Russian officials said they had probably crossed the border by accident. On Wednesday, the Canadian Joint Delegation to NATO tweeted a "guide for Russian soldiers who keep..'accidentally' entering #Ukraine."

Geography can be tough. Here&#x2019;s a guide for Russian soldiers who keep getting lost & &#x2018;accidentally&#x2019; entering #Ukraine http://t.co/RF3H4IXGSpCanada at NATO